County Executive Bello and Monroe County health officials issue guidance as wildfire smoke impacts regional air quality

Rochester, New York – Monroe County Executive Adam Bello is urging residents to pay close attention to changing air conditions after New York State issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for the Rochester region. The advisory follows forecasts showing that wildfire smoke is expected to reduce air quality beginning Wednesday, July 15, raising concerns for people who may be especially vulnerable to unhealthy air.

County officials say they are closely monitoring conditions and will continue evaluating the situation each day as the advisory remains in effect. The Monroe County Department of Public Health and the Office of Emergency Management will review daily Air Quality Index (AQI) forecasts provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, while also relying on continuous monitoring data available through AirNow. Those assessments will help determine whether certain county facilities should remain open or temporarily close if air quality worsens.

The guidance comes as smoke from distant wildfires continues to affect parts of the Northeast, leading to hazy skies and elevated pollution levels in several communities. Local leaders say conditions can change quickly, making it important for residents to stay informed before spending long periods outdoors.

“As wildfire smoke enters our region and begins to impact air quality, it’s important to stay informed and make outdoor plans with air quality in mind,” said County Executive Adam Bello. “While many people can safely enjoy time outside under certain conditions, others may face greater health risks. Understanding your personal risk and taking simple precautions can make all the difference.”

Health officials explained that the Air Quality Index is used to measure the amount of pollution in the air and the potential health risks associated with it. The AQI ranges from 0 to 500, with higher numbers indicating poorer air quality and greater concern for public health. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, readings above 200 are considered “very unhealthy,” meaning everyone—not only people with existing health conditions—faces an increased risk of harmful effects from breathing polluted air.

Read also: Rochester Animal Services invites families to adopt shelter dogs for just $1 during Dollar Dog Days through July 26

While many healthy adults may experience little or no discomfort during periods of moderate pollution, Monroe County officials emphasized that certain groups are more likely to be affected. Children younger than 18, adults aged 65 and older, and individuals with heart or lung disease are considered especially sensitive to unhealthy air. Pregnant women and people whose jobs require extended periods outdoors may also need to take additional precautions. Anyone uncertain about their personal health risks is encouraged to speak with a healthcare professional.

County officials outlined a series of recommendations that depend on how high the Air Quality Index climbs.

When AQI levels fall between 151 and 200, which is considered unhealthy, residents in higher-risk groups should limit their exposure whenever possible. Summer camps, youth athletic leagues and similar programs are encouraged to reduce the intensity of outdoor activities and schedule frequent breaks. Staff members supervising children should remain alert for signs of breathing difficulties or other distress, particularly among young people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Organizers are also encouraged to ensure that medications, including inhalers, are readily available if needed.

If air quality deteriorates further and AQI readings reach between 201 and 300, county health officials recommend stronger protective measures. Outdoor youth programs should be moved indoors or postponed until conditions improve. Competitive sporting events and other activities requiring intense physical effort should be canceled for participants of all ages because strenuous exercise increases the amount of polluted air inhaled into the lungs.

Organizers of outdoor events that involve lighter physical activity, such as concerts, community gatherings or garden tours, are encouraged to consider ways to reduce participants’ exposure. Suggested measures include shortening the duration of events, making high-quality protective masks available or taking other practical steps that lessen the amount of time people spend breathing smoky air.

Should the Air Quality Index rise above 300, officials recommend canceling all outdoor events regardless of the type of activity. Employers are also advised to evaluate air quality inside workplaces and take protective actions if indoor conditions become affected by outdoor smoke. Businesses whose employees work outdoors should consider reducing schedules or limiting outdoor duties until pollution levels decline.

Monroe County leaders stressed that air pollution is not always consistent across the region. Conditions may vary considerably from one neighborhood to another and can shift throughout the day depending on weather patterns and changing wind conditions. As a result, residents are encouraged to check air quality frequently rather than relying on a single forecast issued earlier in the day.

Read also: Monroe County launches community survey to support nonstop flights between Rochester and San Juan

Officials recommend using trusted resources such as AirNow, the National Weather Service forecast and local news outlets to stay informed about changing conditions. Monitoring these updates can help individuals decide whether to adjust outdoor plans, especially if they or members of their household fall into higher-risk categories.

The county also noted that decisions regarding public facilities and county-operated programs will continue to be guided by daily forecasts and real-time monitoring. Officials say this flexible approach allows local agencies to respond quickly if conditions improve or deteriorate.

Although the advisory may only last a limited time, health experts say even short-term exposure to elevated pollution levels can affect sensitive individuals. Symptoms may include coughing, throat irritation, shortness of breath, wheezing or worsening asthma. Taking simple precautions, such as limiting strenuous outdoor activity, spending more time indoors with cleaner air and following updated forecasts, can significantly reduce those risks.

County leaders are encouraging residents to remain aware of changing air conditions throughout the advisory and to make decisions based on their own health needs. By understanding the Air Quality Index, recognizing personal risk factors and following public health recommendations, individuals and families can better protect themselves while wildfire smoke continues to affect the Rochester area.

Additional information about outdoor air quality, health guidance and local recommendations is available through Monroe County’s environmental health resources. Officials say staying informed remains one of the most effective ways for residents to safeguard their health during periods of reduced air quality.